VP Jagdeep Dhankhar Attends SMVDU Convocation: Emphasizes National Interest
Katra, Feb 15 – Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar attended the 10th convocation of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) on Saturday, underscoring that national interest stands above political or individual concerns.
The event, held at the Matrika Auditorium of the SMVDU campus, was graced by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Education Minister Sakeena Firdous.
Addressing the gathering, Vice President Dhankhar stated, “We are Indians, and being Indian is our identity. Nationalism is our religion, and it is our duty to uphold it at all costs.” He also lauded India’s progress over the past decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Referring to the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, Dhankhar called it a “historic” decision, emphasizing that the provision was always meant to be temporary.
Honoring Academic Excellence
During the convocation, degrees and honors were conferred upon students for the academic year 2023-24:
- 684 students received their Bachelor’s Degrees in various disciplines.
- 147 students were awarded Master’s Degrees.
- 34 students received Integrated Master’s Degrees.
- 44 students were conferred PhD Degrees.
Additionally, dignitaries presented:
- 26 medals
- 9 certificates of distinction
- 10 Infosys Foundation Prizes for Excellence
A university official confirmed that 501 male and 408 female students received degrees.
Lt Governor Welcomes VP in Jammu
Before the convocation, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the Chancellor of SMVDU, received Vice President Dhankhar at Jammu Airport. The event marked another milestone in the university’s journey toward academic excellence.
